Hotels in Columbus

Hotels in Columbus range from $60 to $400 per night, covering everything from reliable budget stays to top-tier luxury properties. With over 180 hotels citywide, visitors have ample choice across all major neighborhoods. Travorio makes booking simple and flexible, accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, and over 100 cryptocurrencies, as well as Sezzle Pay in 4 installments and PayPal Pay Later for those who want to split payments.

Columbus welcomes over 40 million visitors annually, drawn by its thriving arts, sports, and culinary scenes. The strong US dollar provides a favorable currency advantage for many international travelers. Booking during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October ensures pleasant weather and lower hotel rates. For best availability and prices, secure your room at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially if you plan to visit during major events.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Columbus

Columbus is a patchwork of lively districts, each with its own character and appeal. Choosing the right neighborhood shapes your experience, whether you crave nightlife, art, history, or family-friendly fun.

Short North Arts District

The Short North Arts District is the creative heartbeat of Columbus, renowned for its vibrant murals, independent galleries, and energetic nightlife. Hotel rates here run from $130 to $200 per night, reflecting its popularity among art lovers and foodies. The neighborhood’s main landmark is the Goodale Park, a leafy urban oasis perfect for morning walks. For dining, Brassica is a standout local favorite, serving up Mediterranean bowls in a chic, casual setting. The monthly Gallery Hop is a magnet for culture seekers, with dozens of venues opening their doors late into the evening. This area is ideal for solo female travelers, couples, and anyone looking to explore Columbus’s culinary and art scenes on foot. The nearest transit hub is the North High Street bus corridor, which connects to Downtown in under 10 minutes.

Downtown Columbus

Downtown Columbus is the city’s commercial and political center, offering a blend of business hotels, historic architecture, and riverfront parks. Prices for hotels here typically range from $120 to $190 per night. The Ohio Statehouse anchors the area, while the North Market provides a bustling spot for lunch or coffee breaks. The Scioto Mile, a scenic riverfront promenade, is perfect for sunset strolls or morning jogs. Downtown is best suited to business travelers, first-time visitors, and conference attendees who value convenience above all. Dining options like Veritas offer inventive tasting menus that attract foodies from across the city. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) Transit Terminal is just a block away, providing quick access to the airport and other districts, with the city center itself at your doorstep.

Arena District

The Arena District pulses with energy from Nationwide Arena, home to NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets and a regular host to concerts and events. Hotel rates here fall between $130 and $210 per night, reflecting the area’s popularity among sports fans and event-goers. Huntington Park, another key landmark, is where baseball lovers can catch a Columbus Clippers game. Grab a burger and craft beer at Ted’s Montana Grill before an event, or linger afterward at one of the district’s lively brewpubs. The Arena District is well-suited to young professionals, concert-goers, and groups of friends looking for entertainment-focused stays. COTA’s Nationwide Boulevard line links the district to the rest of the city, with a five-minute ride to Downtown.

University District

The University District, spanning the neighborhoods around Ohio State University, is a hub for students, visiting families, and budget travelers. Nightly rates range from $60 to $120, making it the most wallet-friendly area in Columbus. The landmark Ohio Stadium towers over the neighborhood, especially on game days when fans flood the streets in scarlet and gray. For cheap eats, Buckeye Donuts is an institution, serving fresh donuts and gyros 24/7. Wexner Center for the Arts provides a contemporary cultural fix just steps from many hotels and dorms. This district is ideal for university visitors, solo travelers, and those seeking affordable accommodation with a youthful vibe. COTA’s High Street bus line gets you to Downtown in about 12 minutes.

German Village

German Village, a National Historic Landmark, enchants visitors with its brick streets, charming cottages, and leafy courtyards. Hotels in this district are mostly boutique properties, with rates from $110 to $180 per night. Schiller Park is the neighborhood’s historic green space, hosting Shakespeare in the Park performances in summer. The Book Loft, a labyrinthine indie bookstore with 32 rooms, is a must-visit for bibliophiles. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus is legendary for its authentic German fare and cream puffs. German Village is best for couples, history buffs, and families seeking a slower-paced, picturesque stay. The Parsons Avenue bus line connects to Downtown in under 10 minutes.

Easton

Easton is Columbus’s premier shopping and entertainment destination, home to the sprawling Easton Town Center. Hotels here range from $120 to $180 per night, attracting families, business travelers, and shopaholics. Easton Town Center itself is a landmark, offering more than 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Enjoy a bite at Northstar Café, known for its organic, locally sourced menu. LEGOLAND Discovery Center provides family-friendly fun, especially for younger travelers. The area is designed for convenience, with safe walkways and plenty of parking. COTA’s Easton Transit Center offers direct express service to Downtown in about 15 minutes, making it easy to explore the rest of the city while enjoying suburban comforts.

Average Hotel Prices in Columbus by Season

Columbus hotel prices shift noticeably throughout the year, influenced by weather, university calendars, and major events. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Spring (March–May): 3-star hotels average $120 per night, 4-star properties run about $175.
• Summer (June–August): 3-star hotels climb to $140 per night, with 4-star options around $195. This is peak season, especially during festival weekends.
• Autumn (September–November): 3-star hotels average $130 per night, 4-star rates hover at $185. September and October are particularly popular for weddings and university events.
• Winter (December–February): 3-star rates drop to $90 per night, while 4-star hotels can be found for $140, except during holiday weeks.

Major events cause significant price spikes. The Ohio State Fair (late July to early August), Columbus Arts Festival (June), and Buckeye football home games (September–November) often push rates up by 30–50%. Booking during off-peak months, especially in January and February, can save travelers up to 40% compared to peak times. Early reservations are essential if your visit coincides with citywide events, as availability tightens and rates surge.

How to Book Hotels in Columbus with Cryptocurrency

1. Start your search on the Travorio hotel search page. Enter your dates and filter for properties in Columbus.
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Pay Later Hotels in Columbus: Split Into 4 Payments

Sezzle lets you book hotels in Columbus by paying just 25% upfront and spreading the rest over three biweekly payments. For example, a $160 stay at a mid-range Short North hotel means you pay only $40 today, with three more $40 payments every two weeks. PayPal Pay Later offers a similar “buy now, pay later” feature but may allow for more flexible payment schedules, depending on your PayPal account status. Both options charge zero interest, require no hard credit check, and have no hidden fees. To see eligible properties, visit pay later hotels in Columbus and enjoy stress-free budgeting for your trip.

Getting to Columbus: Flights and Transport

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is the city’s primary aviation hub, located 11 km (7 miles) east of Downtown. Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), 22 km (14 miles) to the south, handles limited commercial traffic and cargo flights. Both airports offer modern amenities and efficient ground transport.

From John Glenn Columbus International Airport, travelers have three main options to reach the city center:

• Taxi/Rideshare: Metered taxi fare is typically $25–$35 USD to Downtown. Uber and Lyft rates are comparable, with easy pickup zones outside each terminal.
• COTA AirConnect Bus: This express service links the airport with major downtown hotels for just $2.75 USD per ride. Buses run every 30 minutes from early morning to late evening.
• Rental Car: Several national agencies operate onsite, with daily rates starting at $45 USD plus fees. Driving to Downtown takes about 15 minutes via I-670.

Average round-trip flight prices from major cities to Columbus (CMH) are as follows:

• New York (JFK): $220–$350
• Chicago (ORD): $150–$280
• Dallas (DFW): $260–$410
• Los Angeles (LAX): $320–$480
• Atlanta (ATL): $180–$300

For flight bookings and price comparisons, use Travorio flights. For airport info, see the John Glenn Columbus International Airport site.

Columbus Travel Tips for 2026

Visa: US citizens do not need a visa for domestic travel within the United States. UK and Canadian visitors must apply for an ESTA under the US Visa Waiver Program, allowing stays up to 90 days. Australian and EU citizens also use ESTA for short visits, but should check the latest guidelines before booking. From 2026, travelers from certain EU countries may require an ETIAS authorization for transiting or visiting the US; consult your local consulate for updates.

Local transport: Columbus’s public transit is managed by the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA). Single ride fares are $2.00, and a day pass costs $4.50, valid on all COTA buses and routes. Buses run from around 5 am to midnight on weekdays, with slightly reduced hours on weekends. While COTA services most major neighborhoods, ride-sharing apps and rental bikes fill the gaps for late-night or suburban trips.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in Columbus, as throughout the US. For hotel staff, $2–$5 per night for housekeeping and $1–$2 per bag for bellhops is standard. Restaurant servers expect 18%–20% of the pre-tax bill, while taxi and rideshare drivers appreciate 10%–15%.

Currency: The local currency is the United States Dollar (USD, code: USD), with 1 USD roughly equivalent to 0.93 EUR or 0.80 GBP (as of June 2024). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for small purchases and tips. ATMs are plentiful in hotel lobbies and commercial districts.

Best time to visit: The most pleasant months are April to June and September to October, when daytime temperatures average 15–25°C (59–77°F) and humidity is low. Summer (July–August) brings highs of 22–30°C (72–86°F), ideal for festivals but busier and more expensive. Winters are cold, with averages of -6 to 4°C (21–39°F), and occasional snow, making this season best for budget travelers and indoor attractions. Plan around major events if you want to avoid crowds and higher prices.

For more practical advice and up-to-date city happenings, visit the Experience Columbus tourism board.

Best Hotels in Columbus for Different Budgets

Budget Hotels ($60-$100/night)

Budget-conscious travelers will find excellent value in the University District and along Morse Road. National chains like Red Roof Inn and Motel 6 offer clean, basic rooms with free Wi-Fi and parking. Expect smaller room sizes (18–22 sq m) and limited amenities, but reliable comfort for solo travelers, students, and families. Some motels offer continental breakfast, while others are strictly room-only. Access to public transport is usually within a 10-minute walk.

Mid-Range Hotels ($110-$180/night)

Mid-range hotels cluster in Short North, Downtown, and Easton. Brands such as Hampton Inn & Suites and Hyatt Place deliver notable upgrades: larger rooms (28–35 sq m), complimentary hot breakfast, fitness centers, and sometimes indoor pools. Many properties are within walking distance of top attractions, dining, and nightlife. Expect a more polished experience, with professional staff and flexible check-in.

Luxury Hotels ($220-$400/night)

Luxury seekers gravitate to Downtown and the Arena District. The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, boasts contemporary art, a full-service spa, and a trendy rooftop bar. Hilton Columbus Downtown features an indoor pool, skyline views, and direct access to the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph, is another standout for its in-room art collection and fine dining. Expect spacious suites (40+ sq m), valet parking, curated amenities, and attentive service.

Columbus Food and Dining Guide for Hotel Guests

Columbus’s food scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods, with standout options near all major hotel zones. In Short North, The Pearl serves modern American comfort food and fresh oysters, while North Market Downtown is a must-visit for local eats from pho to pierogi. German Village’s Thurman Café is legendary for towering burgers and local drafts. In Easton, Condado Tacos offers customizable tacos and a lively atmosphere. Street food and quick bites average $8–$12, casual sit-down meals run $15–$25, and fine dining starts around $40 per person. Local dishes to try include the Columbus-style thin-crust pizza (square cut, edge-to-edge pepperoni) and the classic Buckeye candy (peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate). Many mid-range and luxury hotels include breakfast; otherwise, nearby bakeries and cafes abound for morning fuel.

Why Book Columbus Hotels on Travorio

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